Hold on to your hats, folks, because we're diving into a real head-turner! Mark Psaila's 1966 HR Premier is a time-defying, jaw-dropping machine that refuses to be forgotten. But here's the twist: it's not just about nostalgia.
Mark, a true car enthusiast, has owned this beauty since the late 90s, and it's been through quite the evolution. From a stock two-owner car to a powerhouse with a 208ci red six and triple carbs, and later, a Chevy 350 small-block, this HR has seen its fair share of transformations. But wait, there's more! Mark then fitted a monstrous 434ci small-block, pushing the limits with a whopping 680hp on the engine dyno and nearly 1000hp on nitrous. And this is where the story takes an unexpected turn.
After years of sitting idle, Mark decided it was time for a change. He transformed the HR into a custom-painted, all-around street machine with a unique House of Kolor Sunset Pearl orange paint job. But here's where it gets controversial—he let it sit for 15 years! Mark, feeling the itch to create again, built a rusty-looking HR called RAT-HR with an RB25 Nissan engine, but his heart kept pulling him back to this particular Premier.
Mark's decision to revive the HR was fueled by a desire to conquer drag and roll racing. This meant major modifications, including a rear clip conversion, turning the four-door into a two-seater with an integrated roll cage for added rigidity. And let's not forget the new transmission tunnel to accommodate the car's lowered stance.
The body was meticulously straightened, and Jeff Briffa, a renowned painter in the Street Machine world, worked his magic, returning the car to its original Landale Gold color with a modern twist—a black roof. But Mark wasn't done yet; he had a bold plan for the engine.
Mark chose to break away from the traditional V8 path and opted for a turbocharged Toyota 2JZ six-cylinder. This engine is legendary for its power and torque, dominating drag strips worldwide. Its reputation is built on a nickel-tough bottom end with an iron block, 8.5:1 compression, and beefy factory conrods, allowing it to easily double its factory 280hp rating.
Mark has only just begun to unlock the 2JZ's potential. He's had Rams Head Service work their magic on the cylinder head, installing oversized Ferrea valves, Kelford cams, and solid lifters. This sets the stage for a new, more powerful short motor that will truly unleash the beast within.
The current setup includes a massive Garrett G42 turbo, a custom manifold, and a sophisticated fuel system with Bosch injectors to handle the thirsty 3.0-litre engine. All this power is managed by a Haltech R5 Nexus and PD16 PDM, allowing the car to produce an impressive 529rwhp on just 21psi.
Mark's HR Premier is a testament to his vision and skill. With its unique history, bold engine choice, and performance goals, it's sure to spark conversations and debates among car enthusiasts. And this is the part most people miss—it's not just about the numbers; it's the passion and dedication that make this build truly special.
So, what do you think? Is Mark's choice to go with a 2JZ a stroke of genius or a controversial move? Are you team V8 or team Turbo? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let's keep the conversation rolling!
